Sweat gland treatment in Zurich: Effective help for hyperhidrosis

Sweat gland treatment with botulinum is one of the most effective solutions in modern aesthetic medicine to combat excessive sweating. While surgical procedures such as sweat gland suction involve an operation with the associated risks, scarring and longer healing time, the Treatment with botulinum toxin a gentle alternative with immediate socialising ability and a high success rate. The method is perfect for anyone who wants to regain their quality of life.

The philosophy of Medical NOVA is based on the conviction that medical expertise and individualised treatment concepts form the basis for sustainable results. This holistic approach is also reflected in our approach to sweat gland treatment. We understand that every patient has a Unique symptoms and therefore carefully analyse the individual perspiration pattern before each treatment. Only through this detailed preliminary analysis by means of a sweat test can we create a customised treatment plan that leads to optimal and long-lasting results.

In recent years, modern sweat gland treatment has developed into one of the most popular aesthetic treatments developed in Switzerland. People who have a lot of customer contact at work or who suffer from the psychological stress of constant sweating in particular benefit from the targeted inhibition of sweat production. The method offers a Scientifically sound solution for a problem that is far more than just a cosmetic concern.

What is hyperhidrosis and how does it develop?

Hyperhidrosis describes a Excessive sweat productionwhich occurs regardless of temperature or physical activity. The condition affects an estimated 2 to 3 per cent of the population in Switzerland and can significantly impair quality of life. Medically, a distinction is made between primary and secondary hyperhidrosis, with the primary form occurring without any recognisable underlying disease and usually affecting localised areas of the body.

Primary focal hyperhidrosis manifests itself particularly frequently in the Armpit, on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet or face. The cause is an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which permanently stimulates the sweat glands - the eccrine sweat glands - to produce sweat. This form of hyperhidrosis often begins during puberty or in young adulthood and remains a lifelong problem without treatment.

In contrast to this is secondary hyperhidrosis, which occurs as a result of an underlying disease such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism or hormonal changes. In such cases, the first step is to Treatment of the underlying disease decisive. Sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin is primarily suitable for the treatment of primary focal hyperhidrosis where other conservative methods such as antiperspirants or systemic medication have failed.

For people with hyperhidrosis, every handshake means a emotional challengeEvery business meeting is a test of endurance. Your armpits are drenched even though it's cool. Your hands are sweating so much that holding a pen is torture.

How does sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin work?

The treatment against heavy sweating is based on a precise medical mechanismBotulinum toxin type A inhibits the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the cholinergic nerve endings that normally stimulate the eccrine sweat glands to produce sweat. This targeted blockade of neuromuscular signalling effectively prevents excessive sweating - without affecting the body's natural temperature regulation.

The mode of action differs fundamentally from other methods. While topical aluminium chloride preparations only constrict the ducts of the sweat glands and systemic anticholinergics affect the entire body, the Botulinum toxin injection exclusively locally in the treated area. The injection is carried out intracutaneously using very fine needles, i.e. directly under the skin of the affected areas where the sweat glands are located.

In contrast to the application of Botox In contrast to facial wrinkle treatment, where the aim is to relax the facial muscles, sweat gland treatment is aimed directly at the autonomic innervation of the sweat glands. The result is a Significant reduction in welding production by up to 90 per cent in the treated area - dry armpits or hands and a noticeable gain in self-confidence in everyday life.

The scientific basis of the treatment

The effectiveness of sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin is characterised by Numerous clinical studies proven. In scientific studies, over 90 per cent of treated patients report a significant reduction in sweating. The method is internationally recognised as the gold standard for primary focal hyperhidrosis that does not respond to conservative therapies.

At Medical NOVA, sweat gland treatment is carried out exclusively by experienced medical specialists with many years of expertise.

Sweat gland treatment procedure at Medical NOVA

The treatment of hyperhidrosis at Medical NOVA follows a structured, multi-stage processwhich guarantees the highest quality standards and optimum patient safety.

Step 1: Detailed medical history and sweat test

Every sweat gland treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation, which typically 20 to 30 minutes takes. To objectively measure sweat production, we carry out the so-called Minor test - also known as the iodine strength test.

In the Minor test, the affected area of skin is coated with an iodine solution and then sprinkled with cornflour. Areas with active welding production turn dark blue to black due to a chemical reaction and show us precisely where the sweat glands are particularly active. This mapping enables precise treatment planning and ensures that no area is overlooked.

During this analysis phase, we also discuss possible contraindications, realistic expectations and aftercare. The treatment is usually without local anaesthetic as the injections are carried out with very fine needles and are only minimally noticeable. This clearly distinguishes the method from more invasive procedures such as surgical sweat gland suction, which requires a general anaesthetic or at least an extensive local anaesthetic.

Step 2: Professional preparation of the treatment area

After taking a medical history, the affected skin area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. This is essential to minimise the risk of infection at the injection sites. The injection points previously marked during the sweat test are now Precisely marked on the skinWe usually inject at a grid spacing of around 1 to 2 centimetres.

For treatment of the armpit, this typically means 10 to 15 injection points per side. For the hands, which have a larger surface area and higher sweat gland density, it is possible to use 20 to 30 injections per hand be necessary. This careful planning is crucial for an even effect without untreated areas.

Step 3: Precise injection of the botulinum toxin

Depending on the size of the area to be treated, the actual treatment takes about 15 to 30 minutes. The botulinum toxin is injected into the superficial skin layer at the previously marked points using a very fine needle. The dosage is customised and depends on the severity of the hyperhidrosis and the area of the body to be treated.

Most patients describe the feeling as Barely noticeable and very well tolerated - comparable to a light mosquito bite. For the armpit, we typically use a total dose of 50 to 100 units of botulinum toxin per side; for the hands, the dosage can be higher.

Step 4: Immediate return to everyday life

After the treatment you are immediately socially acceptable again and you can continue with your normal daily routine. Slight swelling or redness at the injection sites usually disappears within a few hours. The treated areas should not be washed for a few hours to ensure optimum absorption of the active ingredient.

An optional follow-up appointment after 2 to 4 weeks allows us to assess the treatment result together. If individual areas require Insufficient effect we can treat them in a targeted manner. However, this is rarely necessary if the initial treatment was carried out carefully.

Effect & durability - what is realistic?

The effect of the sweat gland treatment develops Gradually over several dayswhich is a particular advantage of this method. Unlike surgical procedures, where the sweat glands are removed mechanically, the effect of botulinum toxin unfolds gradually, creating a natural transition from the initial situation to the treatment result.

The first effects of sweat gland treatment are already apparent after 3 to 5 days. Many patients report that they notice dry armpits in the morning after waking up for the first time in years. The full effect unfolds after around 1 to 2 weeks, when the botulinum toxin is fully bound to the nerve endings. In clinical studies, over 90 per cent of those affected reported significantly reduced sweating in the treated area - many even reported almost complete dryness.

The Duration of effect of sweat gland treatment is 6 to 9 months on average, although this period depends on various individual factors. People with very active sweat glands or a fast metabolism may notice an earlier reduction in the effect after around 4 to 6 months. In other patients, the effect can last up to 12 months. Interestingly, we often observe an extension of the duration of effect with regular treatments, as the sweat glands "get used" to the reduced activity.

The results are, with proper application Very predictable and reproducible. In contrast to surgical procedures, which have a permanent effect but harbour the risk of compensatory sweating in other parts of the body, Botox treatment remains limited to the treated area. The body does not produce more sweat elsewhere to compensate for the reduced sweating.

Another important aspect is the Complete reversibility of the treatment. If you are not satisfied with the result - which is extremely rare - the effect will subside completely after a few months and sweat production will normalise again. This security is particularly reassuring for first treatments.

The optimum treatment frequency is around 2 to 3 treatments per yeardepending on the individual duration of effect. After the first few treatments, many patients develop a feeling for when the effect gradually wears off and can therefore determine the optimum time for the next treatment themselves. Some opt for a prophylactic top-up before the warmer months of the year or before important professional events.

Who is the sweat gland treatment suitable for?

Treatment of the sweat glands with botulinum toxin is suitable for a Broad patient groupThe individual analysis during the consultation is crucial. The ideal candidates are people with primary focal hyperhidrosis who suffer from excessive sweating despite the use of highly concentrated antiperspirants or other conservative measures.

• Diagnosed primary hyperhidrosis in the armpits, hands, feet or face
• Excessive sweating despite using antiperspirants with aluminium chloride
• Heavy sweating that impairs quality of life at work or at home
• Sweat stains on clothing despite frequent changes
• Damp hands that make everyday life difficult (handshake, writing, driving)
• Desire for a non-surgical treatment method without scarring
• No serious underlying illnesses or pregnancy
• Realistic expectations of the treatment outcome

In our practice, we frequently treat people who work and suffer from sweaty armpits or damp hands. Sweat gland treatment helps to improve self-confidence during presentations, customer meetings or social encounters. Many patients report that, for the first time in years, they dare to wear tight or light-coloured clothing or shake hands with someone without worrying.

The treatment is suitable for patients from about 18 yearsas primary hyperhidrosis often begins during puberty or in young adulthood. There is no strict upper age limit - the decisive factor is the individual level of suffering and medical suitability for treatment.

Aftercare: do's & don'ts for optimal results

Aftercare following sweat gland treatment is uncomplicated and requires only a few restrictions. Nevertheless, there are some important points to bear in mind to ensure optimal results and minimise the risk of complications. Our patients receive detailed written aftercare instructions, which we explain below.

First 24-48 hours: Critical phase for optimum effect

In the first two days after treatment Special care is requiredas the botulinum toxin is not yet fully bound to the nerve endings and could theoretically still diffuse into neighbouring areas. Some important rules of behaviour therefore apply during this phase:

• No rubbing, massaging or strong pressure in the treatment area - this could affect the distribution of the botulinum toxin
• Avoid intense physical exertion, sport, sauna, steam bath or solarium - increased blood circulation could weaken the effect
• No hot baths or showers in the first 24 hours - lukewarm water is permitted
• Do not shave or epilate treated areas for 48 hours
• Avoid alcoholic drinks in the first 24 hours - alcohol dilates the blood vessels
• For small haematomas: gentle cooling with soft compresses, but do not press directly on the puncture sites

It is particularly important in the first few hours after treatment to not to sweat intensivelyas this could impair the distribution of the botulinum toxin. You should therefore avoid physically strenuous activities or spending time in very warm environments. Instead, you should engage in normal everyday activities but observe the restrictions mentioned.

After one week: return to complete normality

After only about a week all normal activities can be absorbed again without restriction. The botulinum toxin is now firmly bound to the nerve endings of the sweat glands and the first clear effects of the treatment become noticeable. At this point, most patients already report a significant reduction in sweat production.

You can now exercise normally, go swimming and use the sauna. The use of deodorants or antiperspirants is also possible again - however, many patients find that they hardly need them after the treatment.

Alternative treatment methods for hyperhidrosis

Although sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin is the ideal solution for most patients, depending on the individual situation, there are also Other methodswhich can be useful. At Medical NOVA, we offer a comprehensive range of consultations and will inform you which method promises the best results for you.

Topical antiperspirants with aluminium chloride

Preparations containing aluminium chloride in higher concentrations (15 to 25 %) act by blocking the ducts of the sweat glands and are suitable for Mild to moderate hyperhidrosis. They are applied to dry skin in the evening and washed off in the morning. However, their effectiveness is limited and many sufferers report skin irritation, itching or burning sensations. These topical treatments are usually not sufficient for severe sweating.

Iontophoresis: Electrical sweat inhibition

This method uses a weak electric current to temporarily influence the sweat glands. The affected hands or feet are immersed in water baths through which a weak current flows. However, the treatment must be Regularly several times a week and is very time-consuming. Iontophoresis is also less suitable for the armpits than for the hands and feet. The time required and the need for special equipment make this method impractical for many sufferers.

Systemic medication (anticholinergics)

Systemic medication such as glycopyrronium bromide or oxybutynin can reduce sweat production at the Reduce whole bodyby blocking the cholinergic receptors. However, they often have side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention or cardiac arrhythmia. In addition, they are not effective enough for all patients and should be considered as a last resort before surgical interventions.

Sweat gland suction and surgical removal

With the Sweat gland suction (also known as suction curettage), the sweat glands in the armpit are surgically removed or suctioned out. This surgical procedure is permanent but invasive and carries risks such as infections, haematomas, scarring, sensitivity disorders or so-called compensatory sweating in other parts of the body. Botox treatment is the gentler alternative hereas it is reversible, low-risk and leaves no scars.

Another surgical method is endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), in which the sympathetic nerve fibres that innervate the sweat glands are severed. This procedure is highly invasive, irreversible and associated with considerable risks such as pronounced compensatory sweating, in which other parts of the body sweat more.

Advantages of sweat gland treatment with Botox in comparison

Compared to other methods such as surgical sweat gland suction or the removal of sweat glands by surgery, treatment with botulinum toxin offers the following advantages decisive advantages:

Risks & side effects: Transparency and information

As with any medical treatment, side effects can also occur with sweat gland treatment. However, thanks to our many years of experience and precise application technique, these are mostly mild and temporary. We attach great importance to providing honest and complete information about all possible risks so that you can make an informed decision.

Frequent, harmless side effects

Most of the side effects occur directly after the treatment and disappear on their own within a few hours to days. These are completely normal and show that the body is reacting to the treatment:

• Slight swelling at the puncture sites - usually disappear within 2 to 4 hours and are barely visible
• Temporary reddening of the skin, similar to a mild insect bite - subsides within a few hours
• Small haematomas (bruises) - occur in around 10 to 15 percent of patients, especially when the hands are treated, and usually subside within a week
• Slight localised itching in the treated area in the first few days - a sign that the botulinum toxin is starting to take effect
• Feeling of slight numbness or tingling in the treated areas - disappears after a few days

These side effects are completely normal and usually do not interfere with everyday life.

Rare complications: Prevention and treatment

Should an undesirable side effect occur, there are Specific treatment approaches. In the case of temporary muscle weakness, physiotherapy exercises can speed up recovery. In the vast majority of cases, however, such rare complications disappear by themselves as soon as the effect of the Botox gradually wears off.

Contraindications: When is the treatment not suitable?

Sweat gland treatment is not for every patient suitable. The following circumstances rule out treatment or require special precautions:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding - for precautionary reasons, Botox treatments are generally not carried out during this time, as there are insufficient safety studies available
• Acute infections at the injection site or in the treatment area - treatment is postponed until the infection has completely cleared up
• Neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - botulinum toxin is contraindicated in these diseases
• Known allergies to botulinum toxin or one of the excipients - very rare, but should be ruled out
• Taking certain medications - in particular aminoglycosides, calcium channel blockers or muscle relaxants can increase the effect
• Blood clotting disorders or taking blood thinners - increased risk of haematomas, but often still possible after consultation with the treating doctor
• Secondary hyperhidrosis due to underlying disease - treatment of the underlying disease necessary first

During the consultation, we create a Detailed anamnesis and check all potential contraindications carefully.

Costs of sweat gland treatment: transparency and fairness

The costs for sweat gland treatment at Medical NOVA are based on various individual factors and are always discussed transparently during the consultation. We attach great importance to fair pricing and avoid hidden costs or subsequent surprises.

The Pricing depends on depends on the following factors:

• Body region to be treated - armpits require fewer units than hands or feet
• Severity of hyperhidrosis - measured by the Minor test
• Amount of botulinum toxin required - depending on the activity of the sweat glands and the area to be treated

For the treatment of the armpit we typically need 100 to 200 units of botulinum toxin (50 to 100 units per side), for the hands it can be 150 to 250 units. The costs are calculated according to the amount of work involved and the quantity of preparation required. A personal consultation will provide you with a Precise and binding cost estimatethat is tailored to your individual needs.

At Medical NOVA, you will receive a detailed cost overview during the initial consultation so that you can make an informed decision. All costs are itemised transparently and there are no hidden additional costs. The follow-up appointment for aftercare is already included in the price if required.

Frequently asked questions about sweat gland treatment

Based on our many years of experience, we have Frequently asked questions from our patients compiled. These should help you to make an informed decision and dispel any uncertainties.

How long do the results of sweat gland treatment last?

The effect of treatment with botulinum toxin lasts on average 6 to 9 months individual factors such as metabolic rate, sweat gland activity and lifestyle habits play a role. For some patients, the duration of effect can be up to 12 months, while others notice a gradual return of sweat production after just 4 to 6 months. Interestingly, with regular treatments we often observe that the effect lasts longer over time, as the sweat glands "get used" to the reduced activity. After the period of effect has elapsed, the effect gradually diminishes and the treatment can easily be repeated if necessary. The optimum treatment frequency is usually 2 to 3 treatments per year.

Is the sweat gland treatment painful?

The injections are hardly noticeable and are considered very well tolerated by most of those affected. described. The sensation is comparable to a light mosquito bite or a short prick. As we use very fine needles and the injections are only made superficially into the skin, the pain is minimal. Most patients find the treatment much less unpleasant than expected. If desired, we can treat the skin with an anaesthetic cream before the injection or cool it with ice packs to further reduce the sensation of pain.

When should the treatment be repeated?

As soon as you notice that sweat production is gradually increasing again, you can have the treatment refreshed. After the first few treatments, most patients develop a Good feeling for when the right time has come. Typically, this is between 6 and 9 months after the last treatment. Many opt for a booster before the warm season or before important work or social events to ensure they stay dry at critical times. Refreshing too early is possible, but not necessary. It makes perfect sense to wait until the effect has noticeably worn off before the next treatment, as this also helps to optimise the long-term effectiveness.

Are there any side effects or risks?

The treatment of sweat glands with botulinum toxin is considered a Very safe and well tolerated. Possible side effects include temporary redness, slight swelling or minor bruising at the injection sites. These usually disappear within a few hours to days and do not affect everyday life. Serious complications are extremely rare. In less than 1 to 2 per cent of cases, there may be temporary weakness in neighbouring muscle groups, particularly when treating the hands. However, this disappears completely as soon as the effect of the Botox wears off.

Can I go straight back to work after the treatment?

Yes, sweat gland treatment is an outpatient procedure with no downtime. You will be fit for socialising and work immediately afterwards. Most patients go back to the office or resume their normal daily activities immediately after treatment. You should only avoid intense physical exertion, sport and saunas for 24 to 48 hours to ensure optimal distribution of the botulinum toxin.

Does the treatment also work with heavy sweating on the hands?

Yes, the sweat gland treatment is suitable Excellent for the hands and can achieve equally effective results there as in the armpits. Injections on the hands require a little more precision and a higher number of punctures (typically 20 to 30 per hand), as the area is larger and the density of sweat glands is higher. Most people affected by palmar hyperhidrosis report a significantly improved quality of life in everyday life and at work after treatment. Shaking hands, writing, holding objects or working with tools is once again possible without any problems. Some patients report a slight temporary weakness of the hand muscles, but this usually does not affect everyday life and disappears completely.

Can the treatment also be carried out on the face?

Yes, excessive sweating on the face or forehead (craniofacial hyperhidrosis) can also be treated with botulinum toxin. The treatment is carried out here particularly carefully and with lower dosesso as not to impair natural facial expressions. The injections are strategically placed to reduce sweat production without altering facial expressions. Many patients with facial hyperhidrosis suffer from make-up that "runs" or a constantly shiny forehead. Treatment here can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life. Please contact us for an individual consultation to find out whether this treatment is suitable for you.

Does the treatment affect the body's natural temperature regulation?

No, the treatment of sweat glands with botulinum toxin is not effective. exclusively local in the treated area and has no effect on the body's general temperature regulation. Sweating is an important mechanism for cooling the body, but since only about 1 to 2 per cent of the entire body surface is treated (for example, the armpits), the ability to thermoregulate is fully preserved. The rest of the body continues to sweat normally when it is warm or when you exert yourself physically. Studies have shown that the treatment has no negative effect on body temperature or well-being in the heat.

From what age is treatment possible?

A lower age limit is around 18 yearsas primary hyperhidrosis often begins during puberty or in young adulthood. For adolescents under the age of 18, careful consideration and parental consent is usually required. There is no strict upper age limit - the individual level of suffering, medical suitability and general state of health are decisive. Older patients can also benefit from the treatment, provided there are no contraindications. At Medical NOVA, we assess each case individually and give you honest advice on whether the treatment is suitable and sensible for you.

Dr Tukezban Huseynova, MD
Medical Director Medical NOVA GmbH
Specialist in ophthalmology and optometry | ophthalmic surgeon | specialist in aesthetic medicine
Over 15 years of international experience | 10,000+ successful eye operations
Further information about the author | Our team | About Medical NOVA

Your path to a sweat-free life

The Sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin is a proven, safe and highly effective method of effectively reducing excessive sweating and improving your quality of life in the long term. The treatment is suitable for anyone who wants a natural and gentle solution to their sweating problem without having to undergo the risks, scars and downtime of surgery.

Our location in Switzerland makes us ideal for patients from Zurich, Winterthur and the entire region. easily accessible. Each treatment is planned and carried out individually so that you can finally feel good again and go through life with renewed self-confidence - without the constant worry of sweat stains or damp hands.

Excessive sweating no longer has to restrict your life. Sweat gland treatment with botulinum toxin is a Scientifically sound, safe and highly effective methodto specifically reduce sweat production.